plate no. 0754

Gabriel Bernard de Rieux

pastel, canvasRococoportraitportraitfigurebooksinteriortableclothing

experienced study

Recreating this painting will help students develop skills in portraiture, including capturing likeness and rendering realistic skin tones, as well as understanding complex drapery and interior details.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 40 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Begin with a light sketch outlining the main shapes and proportions of the figure and the surrounding objects.
step 02
Establish the basic values and color blocks for the background, figure, and table.
step 03
Develop the skin tones on the face, paying close attention to subtle variations in color and value.
step 04
Work on the drapery, focusing on the folds and highlights to create a sense of volume.
step 05
Add details to the books, papers, and other objects on the table.
step 06
Refine the details of the face, including the eyes, nose, and mouth.
step 07
Add final highlights and shadows to enhance the overall realism of the painting.
step 08
Carefully render the textures of the fabrics and other materials.

color palette

primary · ivory black · burnt umber · cadmium red light · ultramarine blue

secondary · yellow ochre · titanium white · raw sienna

Mix various shades of brown and gray by combining black, umber, and white. Use red and white to create the pinkish tones of the skin. Mix blue and white for the tablecloth.

techniques